2026 was a significant year of growth and celebration for Network 08. The network received its highest-ever number of submissions to the ECER conference, reflecting both the increasing visibility of the network and the growing international interest in research concerned with health, wellbeing, and education. Members welcomed the continued growth and diversity of submissions, which showcased a broad range of perspectives, methodologies, and areas of inquiry.
A major milestone in 2026 was the 15th anniversary of Network 08. This provided an opportunity to reflect on the network's development over the past fifteen years and to acknowledge the many colleagues whose commitment and leadership have contributed to its success. To mark this important occasion, the network successfully secured funding from EERA, enabling members to celebrate the anniversary at a special reception during the Network Dinner at the ECER Conference in Tampere.
The network was also delighted to welcome four new co-convenors during the year: Nis Primdahl, Sara Carbonell, Marta Branda, and Hanna Saarinen. Their collective expertise in teacher wellbeing, health promotion, and wellbeing education, alongside their diverse academic and professional experiences, significantly strengthens the leadership team and enhances the network's capacity to support members and advance its research agenda.
A notable achievement in 2026 was the publication of a successful special issue in partnership with Health Education (Emerald Publishing) entitled Advancing Equity, Voice, and Sustainability in School Wellbeing. Guest edited by Catriona O'Toole and Anita Sandmeier, the special issue brought together a range of high-quality contributions, including several papers authored by Network 08 members. The issue highlights the network's ongoing contribution to advancing scholarship and fostering international collaboration in the field of school wellbeing.
The annual network meeting at ECER 2026 in Tampere also marked an important transition in network leadership. Catriona O'Toole, who had served as Link Convenor since 2021, concluded her term in office. Members expressed their sincere appreciation for her leadership, commitment, and dedicated service to the network over this period, acknowledging her contribution to the network's continued development and growing international profile. Following the nomination and election process, Dr Kevin Dadaczynski of the University of Potsdam was elected as the new Link Convenor. Members congratulated Kevin on his appointment and expressed their confidence in his leadership as the network enters its next phase of development. The meeting also saw the election of Marta Branda of the University of Milano-Bicocca as the Network's Emerging Researchers' Representative. Members welcomed Marta to the role and looked forward to her contribution in supporting emerging researchers and strengthening their engagement within the network.
As Network 08 moves into 2027, it does so from a position of strength, with growing membership, an expanding international profile, strong publication outputs, and renewed leadership committed to advancing research, collaboration, and innovation in health and wellbeing education.